Catheterization of Ventral Caudal Artery in Rats: A Modified Technique for Repeatable Angiography and Intervention

Background The use of digital silhouette angiography (DSA) has been restricted due to lack of a technique that allows for repeated intra-arterial inspections over a prolonged period. Current studies are focused on the arteries that can be cannulated multiple times. We intended to develop and test a technique that would enable repeated performance of various catheterizations and transcatheter operations for a prolonged period, at the same site, with fewer postsurgical complications. Methods Thirty rats were randomly divided into five groups. Ventral caudal artery cannulation was performed via the transtail approach after grouping for subsequent experiments. Histological staining and scanning electron microscopy were used to assess endothelial injuries. Results The rats survived post catheterization of ventral caudal artery and establishment of animal models. The average time of ventral caudal artery cannulation was significantly shorter than that of the femoral (p